updated 01:10 pm EDT, Fri September 18, 2009

SteelSeries Siberia v2 has a retractable mic

Gaming peripheral maker SteelSeries on Friday announced it will soon release the SteelSeries Siberia v2 full-size headset. As the name implies, it will replace the Siberia headset released in 2004, with the main improvement being the retractable boom microphone that comes out of the left ear cup. This makes the headset more convenient to carry when travelling, as the microphone tucks out of the way and gives it the profile of regular headphones.

The Siberia v2 also has larger, 50mm drivers that have increased frequency response, now ranging from 10-28,000Hz. The headset can produce a 112dB sound pressure level, and has fully foam padded and leather lined insulation earpads.
The 3.3-foot cable has a built-in volume control and a 6.6-foot extension is included. There are two 3.5mm audio jacks as well.

The Siberia v2 will be offered with or without a USB sound card that generates virtual 7.1-channel surround sound. Either ships with software that lets users tune equalizer settings and other profiles.

Pricing for the SteelSeries Siberia v2 headset will be announced closer to its launch in November.